Launch year

Radios launched 1979 or earlier

The years of Heathkit kits, Drake's 4-Line and C-Line, and Hallicrafters' big receivers. Most of these radios use tubes, though early solid-state sets like Heathkit's HW-8 and SB-104A and Drake's TR-7 appeared in the late 1970s. They're the oldest here, so expect aged capacitors, old tubes and mechanical dials. Many need a matching external supply. Ask whether the set has been serviced, and treat its high-voltage supply with respect.

17 models we cover.